Can I still drive when the car prompts for an oil change during startup?
2 Answers
You can still drive when the car prompts for an oil change during startup, but it is not recommended to drive for too long. It is advisable to change the oil as soon as possible, as the reminder indicates that the oil level is already insufficient. Insufficient oil can lead to cylinder scoring, poor lubrication, increased wear on engine components, and even higher operational resistance. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, serves multiple functions such as lubrication and friction reduction, auxiliary cooling, sealing to prevent leaks, rust and corrosion prevention, and shock absorption. Engine oil consists of two main components: base oil and additives. The base oil is the primary component of the lubricant, determining its fundamental properties, while additives compensate for and improve any deficiencies in the base oil's performance, providing additional beneficial characteristics.
That day my car also popped up this warning, so I specifically asked the mechanic at my usual repair shop. He said this light is just reminding you it's time for maintenance, as the oil's lubricating effect is starting to decline. Driving short distances to the repair shop isn't a big problem, but avoid long trips or highways, otherwise engine wear accelerates significantly. Last time I stubbornly waited three days before changing the oil, and when they opened the oil filter it was full of black sludge. Best to get it handled within three days, and have them check if there's any actual oil leakage while you're at it. Remember to change oil regularly, otherwise the cost of major engine repairs could cover ten years' worth of oil changes.
